NEW striker Lee Novak can make a huge difference for Scunthorpe United this season, according to Iron boss Graham Alexander.

United announced their sixth signing of the summer as they captured former Charlton Athletic striker Novak on a two-year deal on deadline day.

With only three strikers available in Paddy Madden, Tom Hopper and Kevin van Veen, the Iron had made it no secret that they were looking to add another frontman before the window shut as they pressed an interest in Sheffield United centre forward James Hanson.

It was also reported that United were chasing the signing of Crystal Palace forward Freddie Ladapo, who made a good impression playing against the Iron whilst on loan at Oldham and Shrewsbury last season.

But, in a move which seemed to come out of nowhere, Novak joined the Iron one hour before the transfer window slammed shut, as they announced his signing on a free transfer from Charlton Athletic – signing a two-year deal at Glanford Park.

He signed for Charlton Athletic last summer but it did not work out for him at The Valley, with the striker scoring only twice in 34 appearances.

It is believed that United beat off competition from last Saturday’s opponents Bury to land the 28-year-old, and he went on to make his debut in the 1-0 away victory over the Shakers, making an immediate impact as he nearly scored with his first touch.

Speaking immediately after the signing of Novak, Alexander spoke of what he believes the striker will bring to his side.

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“He’s proven, especially at this level, and that’s why I tried to get him on board last summer. I think you can’t just take one season in isolation. You have to look at what he is as a person and as a player.

“He’s still young enough to have loads of football left in him, and I know he will add to the quality of the group of strikers we already have.

“He will bring out the best in the ones we have here already. He will be great for Paddy Madden and Kevin van Veen to play off, and also for Tom Hopper to learn from, with the experience and know-how of making it difficult for centre-halves, bringing others into play and obviously scoring.”

Novak joins a strong group of centre forwards at Glanford Park and will compete for a starting place with Paddy Madden, Tom Hopper, Kevin van Veen and Jonny Margetts.

Scunthorpe United players salute their travelling fans after the 1-0 win at Bury (Image: Damon Campion)

The former Charlton frontman stated that he is ready to make an immediate impact at Glanford Park.

“I’m 28 and have played a lot of games, and I will try and help in any way I can. We’ve got off to a good start. I want to contribute, get a few goals and help get points on the board. If we can do that then we’ll all be happy.

“I have been playing in reserve games and scored, and also scored in the cup. I’m feeling up to speed and up to match fitness. I can’t wait for the challenge ahead.”

With the summer transfer window passing following the signing of Novak, the Iron’s transfer business looked to have come to a close.

However, after Charlton Athletic announced that they had released midfielder Andrew Crofts, Graham Alexander moved swiftly to bring him to Glanford Park – making him the club’s seventh summer signing and wrapping up their transfer activity.

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Crofts joins the Iron on a free transfer and has signed a one-year deal.

The 33-year-old has represented Wales at under-19 and under-21 level and has made 28 appearances for the senior side making his full debut back in 2005.

The experienced midfielder stated that he was eager to join the club after hearing of their interest in acquiring his services and is looking forward to a putting together a promotion push at his new side.

“When I heard of the interest, I knew Scunthorpe have a strong squad, missing out through the play-offs last year.

“I know what a good team I’m joining – a hard-working side who can play some good stuff. I’ve heard lots of good things about the manager as well and can’t wait to get my feet through the door. I want to have a good impact.”

“I’m a very ambitious person and have been lucky enough to have some good promotions in my career, and challenging for things.

“That’s what I see this as – challenging to get promoted and to get into the Championship. We’ll do everything to make that happen.”

The two new signings both bring experience in abundance, which could be invaluable as they join a relatively young Scunthorpe United squad.